Milwaukee Brewers Trade Devin Williams to Yankees, Dodgers Shift Focus to Sam Carlson
In a move that surprised no one, the Milwaukee Brewers have traded star closer Devin Williams to the New York Yankees. Williams, a two-time All-Star and the 2020 NL Reliever of the Year, is entering his final season of club control and is set to become a free agent after the 2025 MLB season.
The Brewers received a solid return in the deal, acquiring starting pitcher Nestor Cortes, infield prospect Caleb Durbin, and $4.5 million in cash from the Yankees. Cortes, like Williams, is entering his final year of club control and brings a much-needed boost to Milwaukee’s rotation. Durbin, who has ties to Wisconsin, provides depth in the infield prospect pool.
While Milwaukee had publicly left the door open for retaining Williams for 2025, the chance to add a dependable starter like Cortes and additional assets proved too compelling.
The Trade Market for Devin Williams
Rumors of a Williams trade had swirled for months, with numerous teams reportedly expressing interest.
Among the most persistent suitors were the Los Angeles Dodgers, who had also shown strong interest in former Brewers shortstop Willy Adames earlier in the offseason. However, with both Williams and Adames now off the market, the Dodgers were forced to pivot their plans.
Dodgers Sign Former Brewers Prospect Sam Carlson
Following the missed opportunities to acquire Williams and Adames, the Dodgers turned their attention to free agency. On Friday, former Brewers farmhand Sam Carlson announced via social media that he had signed with Los Angeles.
Carlson, a former second-round pick by the Seattle Mariners, spent the 2024 season in the Brewers’ minor league system after being acquired in a trade.
They right-handed pitcher showed promise with his development last year, which evidently caught the attention of the Dodgers’ scouting department.
Brewers’ Strategic Outlook
The trade of Devin Williams continues the Brewers’ trend of making calculated moves to stay competitive while managing payroll. With Williams’ free agency looming, Milwaukee leveraged his value to address other needs on the roster.
Nestor Cortes adds stability to a rotation that struggled with consistency in 2024, while Caleb Durbin’s inclusion hints at the organization’s commitment to maintaining a strong farm system.
Milwaukee’s offseason moves signal a focus on balancing immediate competitiveness with long-term sustainability—a familiar strategy for a team operating in a small market.
The Yankees’ Perspective
For the Yankees, the acquisition of Williams adds a premier arm to their bullpen as they aim to contend in 2025. Williams will join an already formidable relief corps, giving New York a crucial edge in close games.
His devastating changeup and ability to dominate late innings make him a valuable asset for a team with championship aspirations.
Final Thoughts
The Brewers’ decision to trade Devin Williams may not have shocked fans, but it underscores the reality of operating in a small market.
By acquiring Nestor Cortes and prospects, Milwaukee has positioned itself to remain competitive in 2025 while preparing for the future.
Meanwhile, the Dodgers’ signing of Sam Carlson reflects their resourcefulness in finding talent even when their top trade targets slip away.
As the offseason unfolds, both teams will be closely watched as they continue to shape their rosters for the upcoming season.
